Malaysia aims to finalize the South China Sea Code of Conduct (COC) by 2025, when the country holds the ASEAN chairmanship.
This effort aims to reduce tensions in the often disputed waters, especially between Malaysia and China.
The desire was expressed after a meeting between the Minister of Defence, Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin, and the Chinese Ambassador, Ouyang Yujing, at the Ministry of Defense last Monday.
Through a message on his Facebook, Mohamed Khaled expressed his hope that Malaysia can reach a consensus on the COC that will be a guide to ensure stability and peace in the South China Sea, especially when Malaysia holds the leadership of ASEAN in 2025.
With that, Malaysia sees this opportunity as a strategic step to highlight ASEAN's leadership role, while promoting stronger peace efforts at the regional level.
In addition, Mohamed Khaled also shared his discussion to strengthen cooperation in defense technology and industry with the Chinese representative.
This meeting is not just an empty huddle, but also reflects Malaysia's strategic planning to ensure regional peace, especially ahead of the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Malaysia and China in 2025.
With the growing relationship between the two countries, Malaysia hopes to strengthen regional cooperation and make the COC a basis for ensuring peace and stability in the South China Sea for mutual benefit.
